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Dear Members of the NJCU Community,

Each February, as we observe Black History Month, we honor the resilience, ingenuity, and transformative contributions of Black individuals who have profoundly shaped our nation’s foundation, culture, and progress. This year’s theme, “African Americans and Labor,” pays tribute to the trailblazers who fought tirelessly for the dignity of work—advocating for fair wages, safe conditions, and equal opportunities, all while dismantling entrenched systems of injustice and discrimination. Their legacy continues to guide our collective pursuit of economic and social justice.

Recent national challenges remind us that progress is neither inevitable nor guaranteed—it is forged through community resilience and an unwavering commitment to democracy. In debates over educational equity and authentic representation, Black History Month serves as both a call to reflection and a mandate for action, urging us to expand opportunities for all.

Now, perhaps more than ever, is the time to double down on the promise of equal opportunity. It is not a moment to retreat in the face of threats or adversity. We do not take counsel from fear. Instead, we stand firm, rooted in the conviction that progress is possible, and remain eternally hopeful that our collective efforts will continue to bend the arc toward justice.

At NJCU, we take immense pride in fostering a community where diversity is celebrated, inclusion is intentional, and learning transcends the classroom to empower change. Here, individual stories intertwine to create a shared narrative of hope, progress, and impact.

I invite all students, faculty, and staff to join us in this month’s programs and events, beginning with our annual Flag Raising Ceremony on Monday, February 3, at 11 a.m. on the Hepburn Hall Lawn. These gatherings offer more than a moment of celebration—they are opportunities to reflect, engage in meaningful dialogue, and draw inspiration from the rich cultural heritage and enduring perseverance of Black communities.

As the late civil rights giant John Lewis reminded us, “Progress is not inevitable. It is made by human beings, by the choices we make, by the fights we wage, by the dreams we dare to make real.” The work of progress continues today. Together, we honor those who blazed trails before us while embracing our shared responsibility to carve new paths toward genuine equity and opportunity for all.

With gratitude and determination,

Andrés Acebo
Interim President
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